What we measure | What we miss

Biomechanical information is commonly studied because it is digital. In fact, all quantitative studies rely on the ability to digitize data. Muscle output digitized as strength or EMG. Joint range of motion digitized as degree limits. Psychological constructs digitized through patient-reported outcome surveys.

The thing is this. Just because we can digitize something, doesn’t mean that it is the most important piece of information within the system. It's just a piece of information. 

On the other hand, features of the environment like opponents actions, field conditions, etc. are hard to digitize, characterize, or even identify. This doesn’t mean they aren’t worth studying.

Context is king. The harder-to-measure contextual stuff is driving the system. Clinicians can take the time to identify and reflect on these features. Researchers tend to overlook them.

Photo by Abigail Keenan on Unsplash